Wisdom Teeth and Third Molars | Pasdena TX Dentist

Pasadena, Texas Dentist Michael Nugent talks Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom Teeth 101:

What are wisdom teeth?

The wisdom teeth are the third molars. These third molars are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. The wisdom teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25 at a time of life that has been described as the “Age of Wisdom”

What is an impacted tooth?

A tooth becomes impacted when the tooth is not able erupt. In the case of third molars it is usually because of a lack of space in the mouth or eruption is prevented due to overlying teeth and bone.

Impacted third molars can be painful, damage adjacent teeth and lead to infections. A more serious complication of impacted teeth is the formation of a cyst. The cyst fills with fluid and enlarges and can destroy near by anatomical structures. The cyst also has the potential to turn into a tumor.

Why/when should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

As the wisdom teeth grow their roots become longer and become more difficult to remove. Dr. Nugent evaluates patients third molars and discusses the optimal time to have the wisdom teeth removed. Patients tolerate and do better from third molar extractions when they are younger. The chance for complications is greatly reduced on younger patients.

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Toni Fehl

Most people don’t really like to go to the dentist. But you all always go out of your way to make everyone feel like family. I refer everyone (family and friends) to you guys. I think yall are great. Keep up the good work.